Events

Rocketbilly Racing

PYROÂ is a 1982 International Transtar 4300 powered by a Westinghouse J34-WE-48 Turbojet engine with afterburner from a T-2 Buckeye. The engine has a single spool, 11-stage axial flow compressor and a single stage axial flow turbine. The J34 produces 12,000 HP with 6,000 lbs. of thrust. PYRO is capable of reaching speeds of over 300 mph, and burns 60 gallons of fuel per run. PYROÂ proves that the lack of aerodynamics can be offset with intense thrust.

IfÂ PYROâ€™s flaming afterburner isnâ€™t enough, it has been equipped with flame throwing exhaust stacks. These stacks operate both on propane and nitrogen propelled diesel. This high-octane combination allowsÂ PYROÂ to boast one of the most impressive fire displays in the world.

PYROÂ is an attention getter with its Nathan Airchime K5LA off of a locomotive, and that â€œlocoâ€ is for crazy loud. This freight train horn sounds the B major 6th cord with its five horns.Â PYROÂ also lights up the night with its strobe system and custom LED lighting.

PYROÂ is a NHRA certified exhibition vehicle.

Driver:Â Bill Berg

Bill Berg, a.k.a. Billy Jack, a native Coloradan, is a master of all things mechanical. His passion for vintage automobiles and motorcycles has brought him to destinations throughout the country. As the owner of a successful Hot Rod company, he has applied his expertise to countless cycles and sleds. His most current undertakings include a 1936 Harley Davidson EL, considered one of the most difficult HD restorations due to the rarity of original parts, and a 1953 Buick Skylark, one of the true gems in the world of vintage cars. Bill is actively involved in local car enthusiast organizations, having shown his prized Skylark at numerous car shows.

Rocketbilly Racing is not Billâ€™s first experience in racing, but his six wheeled, 12,000 HP, 300 mph, NHRA exhibition vehicle jet truck is the next chapter of his racing career. Since he was young, Bill has been captivated with speed, both in the air and on the ground. The perfect fusion of aviation and automotive is born in his jet truck,Â PYRO.

Nearly 300 Airmen deployed from D-M the past six months returned at 10:45 p.m. on July 29. Airmen were greeted by family, friends and base leadership. A total of 1,200 Airmen from across D-M have been deployed around the world ...

Sunset Horseback Ride August 8, 4 – 8 p.m. – Outdoor Rec Saddle up and enjoy a 2-hour sunset horseback ride through the Saguaro National Park. Single Airmen can sign-up beginning July 6. All others may sign-up beginning July 13. Final deadline is July 31. Minimum age: 18. Cost of $25/person. Call 228-3736 for more...

Claims notice for Airman 1st Class David A. Rhodes A1C David A. Rhodes of the 355th Equipment Maintenance Squadron, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, AZ, passed away on 1 July 2015. Anyone having knowledge of claim for or against the deceased’s estate may contact the Summary Courts Officer, 2d Lt Denny Miller, at 937-815-4402, or by...

Claims notice for Airman 1st Class David A. Rhodes A1C David A. Rhodes of the 355th Equipment Maintenance Squadron, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, AZ, passed away on 1 July 2015. Anyone having knowledge of claim for or against the deceased’s estate may contact the Summary Courts Officer, 2d Lt Denny Miller, at 937-815-4402, or by...

Information

Publisher

Desert Lightning News is published by Aerotech News and Review, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under written agreement with the 355th Fighter Wing. Aerotech News and Review prepares all editorial content for Desert Lightning News. Submissions may be edited to conform to the AP Style Guide, local policy and Air Force style as required by Air Force Instruction 35-101.

Disclaimer

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD, the Department of the Air Force or Aerotech News and Review, of the products or services advertised.Contents of Desert Lightning News are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DoD or the Department of the Air Force.